In a historic appointment, Professor Wu Jiang from Shanghai’s Tongji University has been inaugurated as the 23rd President of the Architects Regional Council Asia (ARCASIA). The landmark transition occurred during a formal handover ceremony held at Tongji University on Saturday, marking the first time since the council’s establishment in 1979 that a representative from the Chinese mainland has assumed this prestigious leadership role.
Professor Wu addressed the gathering with a forward-looking vision, emphasizing the critical juncture at which architecture stands today. “With the rapid advancement of digital and intelligent technologies, our field confronts both unprecedented challenges and extraordinary opportunities,” he stated. “ARCASIA must respond proactively to empower Asian architects in harnessing these transformative developments.”
Highlighting his dual responsibilities as both practitioner and educator, Wu added: “As an architectural educator, I consider it my fundamental duty to foster extensive exchanges and elevate educational standards across Asia’s architectural institutions during my tenure.”
The newly elected president brings exceptional qualifications to the position. His distinguished credentials include serving as Executive Director of the Architectural Society of China, Chairman of the ASC’s Architectural Education Branch, and Vice-Chairman of the Urban Planning Society of China. Additionally, Wu holds the prestigious title of Honorary Fellow from the American Institute of Architects and has been elected as an Academician of the French Academy of Architecture.
Wu’s ascent to the presidency follows his 2018 appointment as ARCASIA Vice-President, where he represented the Architectural Society of China and led engagement initiatives with the regional body. Established in 1979, ARCASIA currently represents professional architectural associations from 24 countries and regions across Asia, standing as the continent’s most authoritative organization for the architectural profession.